Definition

    Verb

    • To raise or lift up.

    Origin

    16th century. From the early Dutch word, hyssen, of the same meaning.

    Comments

    Flags or sails are often hoisted up. However, yards are swayed up, instead. Never hoisted.

    References

    Kemp, P. (1994). The Oxford Companion to Ships and the Sea. Oxford University Press.

    King, D., Hattendorf, J.B, & Estes, J.W. (1997). A Sea of Words: A Lexicon and Companion for Patrick O’Brian’s Seafaring Tales (2nd Ed.). Owl Books.

    Rogers, J.G. (1985). Origins of Sea Terms. Mystic Seaport.